Cervical injury - bilateral interfacet dislocation

Case contributed by Dalia Ibrahim
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

A heavy object fell on her back when she was standing.

Patient Data

Age: 4 years
Gender: Female

Bilateral C6-7 interfacet joint dislocation.

Antroposition of C6 over C7 secondary to the dislocation.

Bilateral C7 pars fractures.

Widened space between the spinous process of C6 and C7 due to ligament rupture.

Case Discussion

A bilateral facet dislocation is an unstable flexion distraction type of dislocation of the cervical spine, often a result of buckling force. Occasionally, the bilateral facet dislocation has been named a 'doubly-locked' vertebral injury, giving the impression of stability. However, due to complete ligamentous disruption, this is, in fact, an unstable injury.

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